complement 1 of 2

Definition of complementnext
1
as in supplement
something that serves to complete or make up for a deficiency in something else with his practicality and her refreshing enthusiasm, they are perfect complements to each other

Synonyms & Similar Words

Relevance
2
as in capacity
the largest number or amount that something can hold a full complement of sailors on the ship

Synonyms & Similar Words

complement

2 of 2

verb

as in to adorn
to serve as a completing element to this silk handkerchief will complement your suit very nicely and give it a bit of dash

Synonyms & Similar Words

Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of complement
Noun
Researchers and energy companies see tidal power as a potential complement to wind and solar generation. Kaif Shaikh, Interesting Engineering, 9 June 2026 Cinnamon Cinnamon's warm, spicy flavor complements drinks like apple cider and baked goods like cookies, pumpkin pie, and sweet bread. Jillian Kubala, Health, 9 June 2026
Verb
From playing for his teammates and father, to a tireless work ethic, the 5-foot-5 Kim delivers powerful drives to complement his short game. Dan Albano, Oc Register, 12 June 2026 Firmoo guides walk through these face shapes and suggest frame types that may complement each one. Footwear News, 12 June 2026 See All Example Sentences for complement
Recent Examples of Synonyms for complement
Noun
  • Some people who have been using supplements to get more fiber might find apples just as convenient.
    Alexandra Frost, USA Today, 14 June 2026
  • Brands even sell pickle juice on its own, pickle-free, for use in salty, zingy cocktails or refreshing probiotic supplements.
    Scottie Andrew, CNN Money, 14 June 2026
Noun
  • Despite the current crisis, our institutions of higher education remain strong and will survive, if even in a diminished capacity for the years ahead.
    Tara Haelle, Scientific American, 16 June 2026
  • While most polar expedition ships carry up to 200 guests—or sometimes even more—Ocean Explorer tops out at 138 passengers, though even at max capacity, its spacious, airy interiors provide plenty of room for all to spread out.
    Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 16 June 2026
Verb
  • The food is much better on papal flights with special menus printed with the pope’s coat of arms, which also adorn the head rests.
    Christopher Lamb, CNN Money, 13 June 2026
  • The royal accessorized her look with a wide-brim straw hat adorned with a neutral-colored bow and a pair of classic nude pumps.
    Morgan Evans, USA Today, 13 June 2026
Noun
  • Higher gold prices, rather than sales volume, drove the jump.
    Andrew Staples, Fortune, 16 June 2026
  • Citadel Securities, by making millions of trades per day for its own profit-seeking and to fulfill customer orders, has eliminated inefficiencies by always having the liquidity necessary to buy or sell in large volumes.
    Gary Sernovitz, New Yorker, 15 June 2026
Verb
  • Rainy weather driving tips Switch on headlights - Even during daylight hours, using headlights can enhance visibility and signal your presence to other drivers.
    NC Weather Bot, Charlotte Observer, 12 June 2026
  • California has a goal to enhance road safety, and lawmakers are interested in potentially curtailing dangerous vehicle sizes.
    Ariane Lange, Sacbee.com, 11 June 2026
Noun
  • The idea is to ditch the rigid allocations to stocks, bonds, private equity and real estate around which many institutional investors organize their money managers’ work.
    Bloomberg, Oc Register, 10 June 2026
  • Potensic isn't known for making high-end drones, but its budget-friendly Atom series is the go-to for many first time pilots, as well as real estate photographers and photographers who simply don't need some of the high-end video features that DJI puts into its pricier camera drones.
    Jim Fisher, PC Magazine, 10 June 2026
Verb
  • Starter Eric Lauer battles erratic fastball command and early damage yet completes six innings, while the Rays’ Nick Martinez matches him before a bullpen misstep to Rojas decides a tight opener.
    Liana Handler Follow, Los Angeles Times, 16 June 2026
  • New Zealand has controlled possession for 52% of the game, and both teams have completed more than 80% of their passes.
    Andrew Greif, NBC news, 16 June 2026
Verb
  • References to nomads of the Kazakh steppe and local symbolism abound in the label, as seen in the heavy glass bottles recalling nomads’ flasks and decorated with handmade pendants in the form of old coins engraved with the emblem of each fragrance.
    Sandra Salibian, Footwear News, 9 June 2026
  • Inside are a series of smaller, more intimate rooms frescoed with Pompeian miniatures, and decorated with period furniture and family heirlooms.
    Ruchira Sharma, Condé Nast Traveler, 9 June 2026

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Complement.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/complement. Accessed 16 Jun. 2026.

More from Merriam-Webster on complement

Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!

More from Merriam-Webster